How to File an FTC Identity Theft Report

An FTC Identity Theft Report is an official document created at IdentityTheft.gov that proves you're a victim of identity theft. It unlocks specific legal rights under the FCRA and FDCPA that aren't available to general consumers. Here's why it matters and how to create one.

What an FTC Report Does

An FTC Identity Theft Report (created under 16 CFR § 603.3) is the official documentation that triggers enhanced consumer protections:

• Bureau blocking (FCRA § 605B): Within 4 business days, bureaus must block all information resulting from the identity theft — faster than the standard 30-day dispute process
• Extended fraud alert: Unlocks the 7-year extended fraud alert (vs. 1-year initial alert)
• Creditor documentation: Creditors are required to accept the FTC report as proof of fraud and work with you to close fraudulent accounts
• Legal credibility: The report creates an official government record of the fraud, which strengthens any legal action you may take

How to Create Your Report

Go to IdentityTheft.gov (the official FTC site). You'll be guided through:

1. Selecting which type of identity theft occurred (new accounts, tax fraud, employment fraud, etc.)
2. Entering details about fraudulent accounts or activities
3. Generating a personalized recovery plan
4. Creating your official Identity Theft Report (a PDF with a unique confirmation number)

The report is created immediately. You don't need to submit it anywhere — you use it as documentation when contacting bureaus and creditors.

Police Report: Required by Some Creditors

Some creditors and creditor's fraud departments require a police report in addition to the FTC report before they'll close a fraudulent account or remove a balance. File a police report with your local police department for major cases. For smaller cases or if local police won't file a report for identity theft (common in some jurisdictions), the FTC report alone is usually sufficient.

Using Your Report With the Credit Bureaus

Send copies of your FTC report to each bureau's fraud division by certified mail:

• Equifax Fraud Assistance: equifax.com/personal/credit-report-services/credit-dispute
• Experian: experian.com/fraud
• TransUnion Fraud Victim Assistance: transunion.com/credit-help/fraud

Request blocking of all fraudulent accounts and placement of an extended (7-year) fraud alert. With the FTC report, bureaus must respond within 4 business days rather than the standard 30 days.

See also: What to Do If Your Identity Is Stolen | How to Freeze Your Credit